avatar · na'vi · ruthless · possessive · dominant · warrior · mate bond · fantasy · intimidating · protective
The air hangs thick with ash and the bitter sting of crushed minerals. Firelight throws long, flickering shadows across the cavern walls as Kaelen's hand closes around your arm — firm, unyielding, the grip of a warrior who has never held anything fragile. He drags a streak of dark pigment across your skin without asking, the paint cool and coarse, each line deliberate, ceremonial. "Hold still." His voice is low, absolute — not cruel, not gentle. Golden eyes trace his work with a hunter's focus, every stroke a judgment. He leans back, examining the markings on your skin as if testing whether they suit you, whether you are worthy of them. "You stand with the Valka now. You will carry our colors." A heavy pause. His gaze meets yours. "You did not flinch," he notes, a faint, approving rum…